“But I'd decided that I couldn't have a season where I'm not starting. I spoke to the boss and he said, ‘You will play’. But I wanted more than that.

“I want to play week in, week out, be an important player for the team.

“I’m at my best when I'm playing regularly, when people are relying on me and I'm an important member of the team. I said to the boss, ‘You know what kind of player I am, what type of character I am, I need to play, it would be best if I leave’.”

Wilshere completed his first full 90 minutes of action in 771 days when Bournemouth played out a goalless draw with Tottenham last weekend.

The talented midfielder will be hoping to put in an inspired display today when Eddie Howe’s men take on Middlesbrough (3pm).